What Does a Crown Look Like on a Tooth?
A dental crown, also known as a cap, is a tooth-shaped covering that completely encases a damaged or weakened tooth. It's designed to restore the tooth's shape, size, strength, and appearance. Understanding what a crown looks like involves considering both its overall shape and its material.
What Material is a Dental Crown Made From?
The appearance of a crown heavily depends on the material used. Common materials include:
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Porcelain: Porcelain crowns closely mimic the natural appearance of teeth. They are highly aesthetic, blending seamlessly with your existing teeth. They are strong but can be more prone to chipping than other materials.
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Metal (Gold, Alloy): Metal crowns, often made from gold or a combination of metals (alloys), are very durable and strong. However, they are noticeably less natural-looking than porcelain. They are typically used on back teeth where aesthetics are less crucial.
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Porcelain-Fused-to-Metal (PFM): This type combines the strength of metal with the aesthetics of porcelain. A metal base provides strength and support, while a porcelain layer on the outside gives a natural look. However, a thin line of metal may sometimes be visible at the gum line.
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Zirconia: Zirconia crowns are highly durable and aesthetically pleasing, offering a natural-looking white color. They are becoming increasingly popular due to their strength and lifelike appearance.
What is the Overall Shape and Appearance of a Crown?
Regardless of the material, a dental crown generally resembles the natural shape of a tooth. It will:
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Completely cover the visible portion of the tooth: The crown covers the entire tooth above the gum line, protecting it from further damage.
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Have a natural tooth-like shape and contour: A well-fitted crown will look smooth and natural, matching the surrounding teeth. The dentist carefully shapes and adjusts the crown to ensure a proper fit and bite.
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Match the color of your natural teeth: The dentist will choose a shade of porcelain or other material to closely match the color of your adjacent teeth.
What Does a Crown Feel Like?
A well-placed crown should feel completely natural. You shouldn't feel any edges or rough spots. If you experience any discomfort, it's crucial to contact your dentist.
How Long Do Dental Crowns Last?
The lifespan of a crown depends largely on the material, oral hygiene, and overall dental health. With proper care, crowns can last for many years, sometimes even decades.
Can I Tell if Someone Has a Crown?
In most cases, it’s difficult to tell if someone has a dental crown. Modern crowns are designed to seamlessly blend with the natural teeth. However, with metal crowns, a slight metallic sheen might be noticeable, especially with certain lighting.
Are Crowns Visible When Smiling?
Whether or not a crown is visible when smiling depends on its location in the mouth. Crowns on front teeth are more noticeable than those on back teeth. However, with porcelain or zirconia crowns, the visibility is usually minimal due to their natural appearance.
By carefully considering the material and the overall shape and fit, your dentist can ensure your crown looks as natural and aesthetically pleasing as possible. Remember to maintain excellent oral hygiene to extend the life of your crown and ensure its continued aesthetic appeal.
